The charity's eastern region, which covers Hunstanton's lifeboat station, is holding the online auction between Tuesday, January 15, and Friday, January 25.

Donations need to be received at its regional headquarters in Hadleigh, Suffolk, by Wednesday, so the items can be photographed and listed before bids get rolling.

RNLI events manager Rachel Clarke said: "This auction provides people with an opportunity to put unwanted Christmas presents to a good use."

So far the auction has two seven-day passes for Cannons Health & Fitness centre, Warwick, a family day ticket to Nene Valley railway, three commemorative RNLI plates from the charity's 160th anniversary and a signed copy of the book Three Men in a Boat.

Funds raised will be put with donations collected at the charity's SOS fundraising day, Friday, January 25. Anyone wishing to donate unwanted Christmas presents or any other goods should contact the regional office on 01473 822837, or online at: events_east@rnli.org.uk

The auction will go live on eBay on Tuesday, January 15, at: www.ebay.co.uk/charity